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6 Reasons Not to Use Similar Passwords and the Best Alternatives
Today, our entire lives – professional and personal – are online. Increasing your security steps is now imperative. For Realtors, it's not just about locking doors after an open house but also bolting the virtual gateways to invaluable data: yours and your clients. It's challenging for anyone to keep track of the password demands of today as it seems nearly everything we access needs a password. Unfortunately, shortcuts can be costly. Using a simple password or a variation of a main password structure is like leaving your doors unlocked, begging hackers to enter. In a recent study by NordPass, the word "password" was the fifth most popular for nearly 21 million people worldwide. The top four passwords were "123456," "123456789," "12345," and "qwerty." It's also a common practice to simply create a variation of your favorite password, but experts warn that doing this exposes you to monumental risks. Here are six reasons why you don't want to create a variation of the same password and strategies to increase the protection of your data online. 1. The Peril of Variations Switching a number here or capitalizing a letter there might seem like you're outsmarting potential threats. But hackers are more sophisticated than ever. With advanced software programs that run powerful algorithms, bad actors can quickly predict exposed password variations. It's akin to a criminal casing a bank and studying routines. They still find their way in if you shift your spare key from the doormat to the flowerpot. 2. The Dangers of the Dark Web When internet breaches occur, the dark web becomes a marketplace of stolen data. Passwords are among the prime commodities. Are you using slightly adjusted passwords across platforms? If so, it potentially hands hackers a key to every digital room of your life. Again, for Realtors, protecting your data extends beyond personal ramifications. It means potentially jeopardizing client data – breaking their trust if sensitive information is accessed. 3. The Power of Modern Browsers Today's popular internet browsers like Google Chrome, Safari, and Microsoft Edge aren't just internet portals. They can fortify your online activity. By leveraging their cutting-edge features, you gain: Auto-generated Passwords: Your browser can instantly offer watertight passwords tailored to each site. Better yet, they store your new credentials and retrieve them as needed. Secure Vaults: Never forget or misplace your passwords again – the browser remembers them for you. Prompt Updates: Keeping your browser current ensures it will have the latest security protocols ready to protect you from nefarious plays. A continually updated browser is akin to a shield that's ever-changing to fend off the newest threats. 4. Passkey Protection Tech giants Google and Apple are launching a new era of passkeys. What are passkeys, and why should you care? Passkeys are the next generation of technology designed to replace passwords – and the challenges they create. First, passkeys are digital marvels. They are secure digital tokens that do away with the age-old hassle of recalling your passwords. Second, passkeys are unique to each site or application, residing securely within your device. Think of it as your distinctive digital signature for each site requiring secure access. What's the big deal? A compromised passkey for one site is utterly useless elsewhere. 5. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) MFA might feel like a chore, but the little bit of extra work makes it worth the effort. Visualize it as an advanced security system of a home. It demands not one but multiple proofs of identity – a known password, a device in hand, often to enter a code sent, or sometimes a biometric imprint like a face or fingerprint scan. This multifaceted defense means that intruders can't go any further, even if one part breaches. 6. Password Managers Does having to manage countless, highly unique passwords frighten you? An easy alternative is to use a password manager. Password managers are specialized software tools and browser add-ons designed to help you create, store, and retrieve intricate and unique passwords for your online accounts. Think of them as digital vaults. You only need to remember one strong master password to access your password manager, and it takes care of the rest, inputting the correct password on the right site whenever you need it. Reaping the Benefits When you forgo the lure of password shortcuts, you reap huge benefits: Trust: In an industry where your reputation is everything, safeguarding client data is vital. Peace of Mind: You can soundly sleep when you realize your digital identity is shut tighter than a drum. Efficiency: By using any of these automated tools, you'll spend less time on password recovery and more on your business. Fortifying Your Future Knowing the importance of password protection is the first step. Using the latest technology to fortify your online access is the next one. If you need help and advice, contact a friendly analyst at Tech Helpline, a free member benefit for over 765,000 Realtors across North America, for assistance. Remember, using a smarter approach to your passwords keeps your doors locked and prevents bad actors from breaking in. Related Reads From the Tech Helpline Blog: Is Your Computer Protected from All The Newest Cyber Threats? A Quick Checklist Top 5 Ways for Real Estate Agents to Protect Their Data and Personal Privacy How safe is your computer? Check out this safety checklist! Tricia Stamper is Director of Technology at Florida Realtors®, which owns both Tech Helpline and Form Simplicity.   Thank you to Tech Helpline for sponsoring this article on RE

Protecting Your Identity for Free: A Quick and Easy Guide
Welcome back to our "Tips and Tricks Tuesday" series, which highlights articles around a monthly theme. November's theme is "How to Be a Better Me." Read on for tips and tricks on being your best self: In an age where our personal information is more vulnerable than ever, it's crucial to take proactive steps to safeguard your financial well-being and personal privacy. Particularly when it's FREE and takes less than hour! One powerful tool in your arsenal against identity theft is placing a credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. In this article, we will guide you through the process of placing a credit freeze and provide you with essential tips to fortify your financial security. What Is a Credit Freeze? A credit freeze, or security freeze, is a FREE option that lets you limit unauthorized access to your credit report, preventing others from opening accounts in your name. You'll need to "thaw" or lift the freeze each time you apply for credit; however, many people feel the benefits outweigh the small inconvenience. There are also paid credit "lock" subscriptions available including a number of identity theft protection tools. Overall, both credit freezes and credit locks can be effective tools for protecting your identity and the choice between the two depends on your personal preferences and needs. Why Should You Consider a Credit Freeze? Protection Against Identity Theft: A credit freeze is one of the most effective ways to prevent identity thieves from using your personal information to open new credit accounts, loans, or credit cards in your name. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your credit is locked down adds a layer of security, reducing the risk of unauthorized financial activities on your behalf. FREE and EASY: Placing and lifting a credit freeze is a straightforward process, and it's typically free of charge. How to Place a Credit Freeze Contact the Three Major Credit Bureaus: Visit the official websites of Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion to initiate the credit freeze process. You can also call their respective toll-free numbers or request it by mail. Provide Necessary Information: You will need to provide personal information such as your full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and address. Be prepared to verify your identity. Receive Your PIN: Once the freeze is in place, each bureau will provide you with a unique PIN or password. Keep these in a secure location as you will need them to temporarily lift or remove the freeze. Monitor Your Credit: Regularly check your credit reports for any suspicious activity. You can still access your own credit reports while the freeze is in place. Quick Resources for a FREE credit freeze: Equifax Consumer Service Center or call 800-349-9960 Experian Credit Freeze or call 888-397-3742 TransUnion Credit Freeze or call 888-909-8872 At a minimum, freezing the three major bureaus should be a top priority; however, there are a few lesser-known organizations worth considering. ChexSystems is a service many banks use when checking credit before opening new bank accounts – ChexSystems Online Security Freeze or call 800-428-9623 Innovis is another credit bureau many consumers miss when freezing credit reports – Innovis Online Security Freeze or call 866-712-4546 National Consumer Telecom & Utilities Exchange (NCTUE) is a credit reporting agency association within the utility industry – NCTUE (Exchange Service Center) Online Security Freeze or call 866-349-5355 Tips for Maintaining a Credit Freeze Keep Your PINs Secure: Never share your PINs with anyone you don't trust implicitly. Plan Ahead: If you intend to apply for credit, loans, or open new accounts, temporarily lift the freeze beforehand. This can usually be done quickly online or over the phone. Stay Informed: Stay updated on the latest developments in identity theft protection and credit reporting regulations. Review Your Credit Reports: Regularly review your credit reports for errors or discrepancies. You can obtain a free credit report from each bureau once a year at AnnualCreditReport.com. Consider a Credit Monitoring Service: These services can alert you to any suspicious activity on your credit reports, providing an added layer of security. Don't be one of the 40 million U.S. adults affected by identity theft every year. It can take months and years to fully recover financially from identity theft – don't wait until it's too late! By taking these steps to protect your credit, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to identity theft. TrustFunds cares about the financial health of you, your business, and your clients! Share TrustFunds handy Protect Yourself from Identity Theft Flyer with your colleagues, friends, and family. TrustFunds is dedicated to simplifying, securing, and bridging digital gaps in the real estate industry, by streamlining the earnest money process. To learn more about TrustFunds and its services, please visit their website at

5 Ways Busy Agents Can Ensure Their Children's Safety in a Digital World
While client meetings, property listings, and managing your transactions make up your days, one role takes precedence over all others if you have children — and that's being a parent. As a dedicated real estate agent, you're constantly striving for success, but the safety and well-being of your children can't take a backseat to a busy work life. In today's digital age, protecting your kids from the potential pitfalls of the online world is vital. Research tells us that digital technology enhances children's ability to engage in our world and also poses safety risks. Cybercrimes against children are prevalent – and growing. A recent internet dangers study shows that 12 million children in the US are exposed to cyber risks, nine million are affected by cyberbullying, and six million experienced cyber threats from 2015 to 2020. Here are five practical ways for busy real estate agents to ensure their children's safety in today's digital domain: 1. Open Communication Lines The foundation of online safety for your children begins with open and honest communication. We recommend ensuring your kids feel comfortable talking to you about their online experiences, concerns, and questions. Creating a safe space where they can share their thoughts without fear of judgment or punishment is a great place to start. A Method for This Approach: Set aside dedicated time for family discussions. Ask your kids about their online activities, friends, and any uncomfortable situations they may have encountered. Offer guidance and support, emphasizing the importance of responsible online behavior. Keep devices in plain sight — find a shared open space for their use of digital devices. 2. Educate Your Children about Online Risks Teaching your children about the potential dangers of the internet is crucial. Explain concepts such as online privacy, cyberbullying, and the importance of not sharing personal information with strangers. Equip them with the knowledge to recognize and avoid risky situations. A Method for This Approach: Use age-appropriate resources to explain online safety to your children. Numerous online resources, videos, and books are tailored for different age groups. Discuss real-life examples to illustrate the importance of caution online. 3. Set Clear Boundaries and Rules Establishing rules and boundaries for internet usage can help your children understand what is expected of them. These guidelines should cover screen time limits, appropriate websites and apps, and the importance of reporting all suspicious or uncomfortable online interactions. A Method for This Approach: Create a family internet usage agreement. Outline the guidelines and consequences for breaching them. Collaborate with your children to ensure the rules are fair and reasonable, taking into account their age and maturity. 4. Utilize Parental Control Software Parental control software can be valuable in monitoring and managing your children's online activities. These programs allow you to filter inappropriate content, set time limits, and track your child's online interactions. A Method for This Approach: Research and choose a parental control software that suits your family's needs. Install it on all devices your children use. Customize settings to match your established rules and boundaries. Regularly review the software's reports to stay informed about your children's online behavior. If you need recommendations and guidance, reach out to Tech Helpline. 5. Lead by Example As a parent, you serve as a role model for your kids. Demonstrating responsible online behavior is just as crucial as teaching it. By setting a positive example, you can help guide your kids on how to navigate the digital world safely. A Method for This Approach: Be mindful of your own online actions. Avoid oversharing personal information on social media and practice good digital hygiene, such as using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication. Encourage your kids to ask questions when they see you practicing safe online behavior. Balancing a successful career in real estate with the demands of parenthood can sometimes be overwhelming, but your children's safety always remains a top priority. By fostering open communication, educating your children, setting clear boundaries, utilizing parental control software and settings, and leading by example, you're creating powerful tools to ensure their protection in the digital age. So, take charge, empower your family, and let the digital world be a place of exploration and growth, not a source of worry. To view the original article, visit the Tech Helpline blog. Related reading Are Your Kids Attending School from Home? Safest Ways to Share Your Work Computer Social Media and Kids: 5 Ways to Monitor What's Going On Hacking, Scams, And Viruses: 4 Effective Ways to Work From Home More